The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Manipur Regional Office, Imphal, on Wednesday celebrated “International Women’s Day, 2026” on the theme “Give to Gain” at the Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal, calling for collective action to build a future where every woman is empowered to lead and succeed.
Speaking at the event, Partha Mandal, General Manager/Officer-in-Charge, NABARD, Manipur Regional Office, Imphal, stated that the day aimed to reaffirm the commitment to the ideals of equality, dignity, and empowerment of women. Referring to this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” he said it reflects the timeless truth that investing in women by providing opportunities, resources, and recognition leads to stronger families, resilient communities, and a more inclusive socio-economic order.
He observed that women have long been the backbone of the rural and agricultural economy, nurturing families, running enterprises, and sustaining local traditions, though their contributions often remain unrecognized. The theme, he said, calls upon institutions and society to bridge this gap by enabling women to access finance, markets, technology, and leadership opportunities.
Highlighting the role of NABARD, he noted that the institution has consistently placed women at the center of rural development initiatives. He mentioned the Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Program, the SHE Mart (Self Help Entrepreneurs Mart) initiative, and various programs aimed at enhancing women’s economic participation, enabling them to gain visibility, confidence, and sustainable sources of income, and empowering them to emerge as job creators rather than job seekers.
Stating that empowering women is not only a social responsibility but also an economic and developmental imperative, he asserted that the journey towards women’s empowerment remains incomplete. Partha Mandal called upon institutions, governments, civil society organizations, and communities to work together to create an enabling ecosystem through financial literacy, digital inclusion, improved market access, and supportive policies. He further urged all to renew their commitment to providing opportunities, respect, and support to women and to work collectively towards building a future where every woman is empowered to lead and succeed.
Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, N. Bandana Devi, IAS, Secretary, Skill, Labour, Employment & Entrepreneurship (SLEE), and State Mission Director, MSRLM, Manipur, said that the occasion served as a platform for women from various sectors to come together and share their experiences. She highlighted that the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MSRLM) has been working with over 1.3 lakh women across the state, strengthening the role of women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
She also appreciated NABARD for its continued initiatives in supporting women’s empowerment, agriculture, and other sectors connected to the rural economy. She shared inspiring stories that highlighted women’s courage, kindness, resilience, and achievements; she said they embody the spirit of the theme “Give to Gain.” She remarked that women in SHGs make sacrifices and contribute selflessly so that the larger society can benefit.
She asserted that when a woman is empowered and given the freedom to make choices, she can achieve and contribute in many ways. N. Bandana Devi encouraged SHG members to empower themselves so that they can, in turn, empower their families and communities. She further stressed the importance of maintaining good health, describing it as a crucial foundation for women’s empowerment.
She expressed pride that despite financial constraints faced by MSRLM, the initiatives undertaken by the mission during the IDP crisis have been recognized by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, as well as by the state government, and voiced confidence in achieving higher targets in the future.
Tara Devi Yadav, Second-In-Command, 109 Bn CRPF; N. Gomti Chanu, Deputy Commandant, 109 Bn CRPF; and N. Sadhana Devi, Bank Medical Officer of NABARD, also spoke on the occasion.
Presentations on NABARD initiatives by Thokchom Kiran Singh, Assistant General Manager, NABARD, Manipur RO, Imphal; e-commerce on ONDC platform by Gautami Laimayum of Team Addble; experience sharing by Rajkumari Binita Devi, Proprietor of M/S Binita Mushroom Centre; stalls showcasing a range of SHG products promoted by MSRLM; and felicitation of women staff of NABARD Manipur RO, Imphal, were the other highlights of the event.
Dineshor Thoudam, Assistant General Manager, NABARD, Manipur RO, Imphal, pronounced the vote of thanks.
